Moderate drinkers are 30% more likely than teetotalers to survive a heart attack, whatever their tipple, and they have better overall health and wellbeing, including increased mental alertness in older age and fewer colds. It also helps alleviate stress.

RED WINEGOOD FOR: Protecting against heart disease and dementiaA wealth of medical research demonstrates that if you have 200ml to 400ml (a glass or two) of red wine each day, and may help to guard against adult-onset diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease.Also, the flavonoids in red wine act as antioxidants (mopping up destructive chemicals called free radicals) and are beneficial to blood flow.

BEERGOOD FOR: Bones

As beer is one of the richest sources of silicon, a pint a day (supplying 20% of the average daily intake of silicon) may be one of the most effective ways for young people to help keep their bones strong and protect against osteoporosis. (I care about my bones)

In post-menopausal women, the beneficial effects of higher silicon appear to be lost.Beer also supplies boron, another trace mineral found in healthy bone, and a pint supplies about a tent of the recommended daily allowance of niacin, which boosts energy.

GINGOOD FOR: Preventing water retentionThe juniper berries which flavor gin were originally a herbal remedy for diseases of kidneys and liver. They have a diuretic action, so a gin is even more likely to make you pass water than other alcohol.(say bye bye to cirhossis!)

Because of this, gin may offer a short-term solution to the bloating that some women experience in the run-up to their period, though this hasn't been proved scientifically.

CIDERGOOD FOR: Boosting iron intake and protecting against anaemiaScrumpy cider can make you feel ill because of its high concentration of chemical extracts and impurities. (buy the expensive one, please)However, all types of cider can reduce your chance of developing iron-deficiency anaemia (with its attendant unpleasant symptoms of fatigue, lack of concentration and dizziness).Just one pint of sweet or dry cider, for example, supplies one fifth of the recommended daily allowance of iron. Vintage cider has slightly less.

WHISKYGOOD FOR: Preventing insomnia and protecting against heart diseaseLike red wine, it contains antioxidants (derived from the wooden barrels it is matured in), though they are present in smaller amounts. Nevertheless, a shot or two of whisky each day will help to reduce your risk of heart disease. Doctors also often recommend whisky as a hot toddy to help induce sleep. Adding a spoon of honey and lemon will help soothe a sore throat. (I'm feeling under the weather already, cough cough)

On its own (or with ice), a Scotch is one of the most waistline-friendly alcoholic drinks, with a single shot supplying just 55 calories. (see? Diets are not enemies of alcohol!)

VODKA(best drink ever)GOOD FOR: A sensitive gut and avoiding a hangoverBecause vodka is so highly distilled, it means it may be deemed suitable (in small amounts)(ignore that, please)for people on sugar-free, yeast-free diets designed to tackle conditions such as thrush, candida and irritable bowel syndrome.

One scientific analysis found that vodka had only one six thousandth of the content of the toxic alcohol methanol as bourbon. This, combined with the fact vodka has virtually no colouring or flavouring chemicals, means that it is unlikely to give you a bad hangover.

(you gotta looooove Vodka)

WHITE WINEGOOD FOR: Easing joint painWhite wine contains tyrosol and caffeic acid, which are also found in extra-virgin olive oil.

According to studies at the University of Milan, these substances can partially suppress the inflammatory reaction that occurs in painful conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.Only a moderate intake of white wine (one to three glasses a day) is needed to have a beneficial effect.(I'd say three...the more the merrier!)

And please, don't forget good mixers!

TOMATO JUICEGOOD FOR: Protecting against cancer THINK BLOODY MARY!

CRANBERRY JUICEGOOD FOR: Fighting infections THINK CRANBERRY VODKA!

GINGER ALEGOOD FOR: Calming an upset stomach THINK VODKA OR WHISKEY with THIS